Updated at 2.30pm with Water Services Corporation reply
The Balzan local council is “deeply concerned” and “disappointed” that it has taken Enemalta and the Water Services Corporation seven months to install a substation and lay new water pipes.
In a statement on Tuesday, the council said that it had initially been told that these works would be completed in the duration of a few weeks. However; it said that seven months have passed since then and several streets in the heart of the locality remain in disarray due to the ongoing works.
The streets impacted are Triq Balaguer, Triq l-Annunzjata, Triq it-Tliet Knejjes, Triq Mons. F. X. Zahra and Triq Sigismondo Dimech.
Photo: Jonathan Borg
Photo: Jonathan Borg
Photo: Jonathan Borg
Photo: Jonathan Borg
“It is clear that work is sadly still a long way from being ready. Meanwhile, residents are having to suffer the consequences of manifest inconvenience and at times physical danger,” the council said.
Saying it has no interest in turning the issue into a “political ping pong battle” but is urging the authorities to complete the works in the shortest timeframe possible and ensure that the work done is up to scratch.
“This appeal is in the best interest of residents who rightfully expect a return to normality,” they said.
WSC apologises for delays and inconvenience
In a press release, the Water Services Corporation (WSC) apologised to the Balzan residents for the inconvenience the delayed works have caused them. WSC explained that the work being carried out following Enemalta works in the area has been delayed due to “unforeseen complications” from the contractor involved.
“Despite our efforts to hold the contractor accountable, including the imposition of penalties for delays, progress has remained slower than anticipated,” the press release read.
“The contractor’s failure to meet previously agreed-upon timelines presented us with a difficult decision. While we considered terminating the contract and re-tendering the project, we determined that this option would lead to an even longer wait for the community, as the tendering process would have resulted in additional delays.”
Following dialogue and discussions with the contractor, the WSC has now received a commitment to a “revised and realistic” completion timeline.
The contractor assured WSC that all efforts will be made to complete the works within three weeks beyond the original deadline of 14 November.
“This extended timeframe, while unfortunate, is necessary to ensure the quality and safety of the works being carried out,” the statement said, adding that WSC is fully committed to overseeing the completion of the project and will work closely with the contractor.
“We understand that delays in essential services like potable water can be frustrating and challenging for residents, and we share in that frustration. We remain committed to resolving this matter and completing the necessary works as swiftly as possible."
The statement ended with WSC thanking the Balzan residents for their continued understanding and cooperation during this period.